Gift of Love by Cynthia Moore

Lady Rebecca Hastings has lost her sparkle, her intense joy for living, since her intended was killed in the Battle of Waterloo. On the day that Rebecca’s wedding had been scheduled to take place, she is reunited with her childhood friend and neighbor, Adrian Russell, Marquess of Burton.

Rebecca is immediately conscious of new feelings of contentment as she speaks with Adrian about the happy experiences they shared as children. Memories of their past combined with the cheer of the Christmas season—and some alarming visits from the spirit of her intended—eventually bring Rebecca the knowledge of an enduring love for Adrian. But can he ever accept her as more than a friend?

The iciness of a breeze and pearled trinket are the gateway to reminders of kept promises and lost love. Forever longing for what could have been, can Rebecca Hastings break free of the pain that looms or will the surprise visit of a friend Adrian Russell be the welcoming distraction that may change her life forever?

A soft whisper of love captures the soul that never dies. Rebecca has become noticed by the hereafter, whose mission it is to bring about peace and harmony to her. Rebecca, an easy going, beautiful, and intelligent person who has untimely misfortune befall her and it turns here to a shell of her former self. What we find out about Rebecca is limited, it is only through stories of friends and old acquaintances that we get a glimmer of a girl she was, but not of the woman.

Rebecca and Adam childhood friends who seem more like brother and sister. They are comfortable, communicate well and easy going with one another. Could there be more between them then a family friendship?

James is one character that deserves mention; his only goal is to see to the happiness of Rebecca. His one regret was to leave Rebecca without letting her know how he really felt. There is an abundance of characters that stands out and points this story in a direction of self-awareness and the rehabilitation of Rebecca.

There are numerous times when Rebecca is told to get over herself, be happy, move on, “do not waste your life wishing for something that can never be.” Good advice, but not only is she told this by the people around her but by forces not of this world, seeking to counsel her. How to move forward when you’re told to revisit your past? This was my dilemma with the Gift of Love but in the end it all comes together and you get it.

No time for reading a long drawn out story, but want something that's still satisfying? Then this is a book to pick up. The essence of the story comes in a very short time, so you know its conclusion, but the getting there is the mystery.

The ending brings you back to the remembrance of each character and how their subtle ways played a part in Rebecca’s emotional process. I would like to think that this was all unintentional, but I believe that’s what the author, Cynthia Moore intended. This was a brilliant idea on her part to keep the reader involved in each character and that they were much more than filers for this story but important pieces to Rebecca’s recovery.

Author Cynthia Moore gives all her characters a part in the convalesce of Rebecca with words of encouragement, hope, quiet acknowledgement and thoughts of second chances. I very much enjoyed this book. You might just find yourself opening it up again and revisiting each character. Pick this one up, you won't be disappointed.

RATING EXPLANATION:

1 Star— At this time, we at LASR do not post these reviews. If the book was boring, badly edited, poorly written, had little or no plot, stilted dialogue, and/or unsympathetic characters, we will decline the review.

2 Stars— Not wonderful, but tolerable. There may be some minor editing glitches but not enough to stop you reading. Not a wall-banger, but nothing you'd re-read. This is a book you would borrow from the library - not buy - and never check out again.

3 Stars— Good. Mostly enjoyable. You made it through and didn't consider it a waste of time or money. The story was strong enough or the conflict tight enough, so even when the book faltered, it was able to draw you back in and keep you. There's a chance you'll recommend it to a friend, but it wouldn't go on your keeper shelf.

4 Stars— Very Good. You're glad you were the one who got to review the book. You would probably buy it and would definitely recommend it to your friends. You liked the characters and the plot. The writing style was good and the editing clean.

5 Stars— Great! You would definitely buy this book. You would definitely recommend it to your friends. You really loved the characters and the plot and would consider looking for this authors back list or making her an autobuy. The writing and editing were superb.

LASR Best Book - For a book or story that is truly exceptional. You think about it when you're not reading it. You wonder what happens to the characters when you finish. You would absolutely buy everything else this author had to offer. The highest praise - and reserved for only a few.

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